David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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741. To ask the Minister for Health the number of interventionist cardiologist posts in place at University Hospital Waterford; if any posts are currently vacant; the resources necessary to provide 24 hour emergency primary percutaneous coronary intervention cover; the volume of cardiovascular patient activity at University Hospital Waterford and other PPCI centres here; the extra resources being put in place at UHW; if increased resources will deliver 24/7 emergency PPCI cover at the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9899/16]

David Cullinane (Waterford, Sinn Fein)
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742. To ask the Minister for Health the criteria for determining the provision of 24-hour emergency primary percutaneous coronary intervention cover in hospitals; the volume of patient activity at all intervention centres and for University Hospital Waterford, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9900/16]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 741 and 742 together.

The Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) programme was initiated to standardise the treatment of patients suffering from heart attack in its different forms. The Programme has developed a model of care which describes the treatment of ACS and the protocols for an Optimal Reperfusion Service, based on international guidelines, and best practise. The Programme has recently been asked to undertake a review of PPCI and PCI services nationally; recommendations will be made regarding the future configuration of these services, including the number and location of centres required to serve the population needs.

The Deputy may also wish to note that the Programme for Government, commits to the development of a second Cath Lab in University Hospital Waterford subject to a favourable recommendation from an independent clinical review of the needs of the region.

I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly with regard to the specific service queries you have raised in relation to University Hospital Waterford. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days, please contact my Private Office and my officials will follow the matter up.